Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Cleaning a Monitor
Always turn a monitor off before cleaning it. If any liquid gets inside, the monitor can air
dry without worries of short-circuiting. It's also much easier to see dirt and spots on the
screen when it's dark.
First, clean the outer casing with a spray computer-cleaning solution. Spray the cleaner
on the cloth, not directly on the casing, to avoid spraying into vent holes.
Next, clean the glass using a cleaner designed specifi cally for monitors. This can be
in the form of a spray or a towelette. Don't use ordinary cleaning products on monitors
because they can leave streaks and sometimes harm the antiglare coating. Don't use regular
glass cleaner either, because it contains ammonia, which can also harm the surface. Don't
spray the screen directly, because the liquid may drip down below the bottom bezel; spray
on a cloth and then wipe the screen.
Cleaning External Surfaces
As with monitors, clean the outside casing of PCs, printers, scanners, and similar equipment
with a computer-cleaning spray product. Mild general-purpose spray cleaners also work.
You can also use mild soapy water and a damp cloth (not soaking wet) to clean external
surfaces only—nothing internal or with a vent or crack that leads inside.
Cleaning a Keyboard
Because it's always at the forefront of activity, the keyboard can get very dirty. Although
technicians may remind end users to keep their computing areas clean, more often than not
people neglect to do so. They may type with unwashed hands, or eat, drink, or even play with
their pets while they work. All this activity leaves dirt, oil, and other residue on the keyboard.
To clean a keyboard, fi rst turn off the PC. The keyboard need not be unplugged from
the PC. Then, turn the keyboard upside down and shake it to remove any loose debris, or
hold it over a trashcan and spray beneath the keys with compressed air (see Figure 5.1).
What falls out—and the amount of it—is often surprising!
FIGURE 5.1
Clean the debris out from under the keys with compressed air.
Photo credit: CNET
